In the 1940a, Flash Gordon took us on fantastic journeys to exotic places, inhabited by strangely dressed people, some of whom were evil and bent on universal conquest regardless of lives lost in the process of conquest. Well, aside from the exotic locations and dress, Earth had a similar situation in progress. Here we have the bravery and daring of one man inspiring a small group of freedom fighters to fight and defeat the evil. It was and still is, heartening and cheering to watch Flash Gordon overcome obstacles and adversity to save save the universe, while still having time for love. This first episode of "F;ash Gordon Conquers the Universe" has everything: an exciting beginning and action which doesn't ;et up, fight scenes, camaraderie scenes, beautiful women, exotic dancing, and a devilish looking villain.Ya gotta love it - a cartoon come to life.

Buster Crabbe, Charles Middleton and the other principals do fairly well in this serial. The plot is a thin excuse to go to strange places and see weird things, none of which are very strange or weird by today's standards. But you will see some elements that reappear in space operas today, such as the tilted opening crawl that recounts the previous episode.
The most amusing element is the embarassing costumes many of the supporting players wear.

Comparing this serial to Radar Men from the Moon, Ace Drummond and Undersea Kindom, I would rate it the best. Of course, the acting is dreadful, but if you watched serials at the Saturday Matinee as I did, it brings back fond memories. Its definitely good for a giggle.